The silence was unbearable. No one in Ashwood dared speak after King Valerius' offer.
The black ring still rested in his outstretched palm, gleaming beneath the moonlight. It was more than a royal heirloom. It was a promise. The throne. The future of the Vampire Kingdom.
Every vampire present lowered their heads, awaiting Prince Adrian's answer. Ashwood's warriors tightened their grips on their weapons. Lyria stood in the doorway of Elder Rowan's cottage, unable to tear her eyes away from Adrian.
For a long moment... He didn't move. King Valerius' voice remained calm.
"Kneel." The single word echoed across the village. Adrian slowly lowered his eyes. Then... To everyone's surprise... He took one step backward. "I can't."
Gasps erupted from both vampires and werewolves alike. Captain R
